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 How to Eat More Organic on a Budget
    

    Organic food has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among the people who are interested in leading a healthier life and do not consume too much chemicals in their food. The thought of going organic always sounds nice in our minds but the first thing that would occur to us is, is organic not expensive? The fact is that you do not necessarily have to rob your wallet to eat organic. With a bit of planning, you will be able to consume more whole and safe food without excessive spending.In this article, I will tell you about simple and practical tips on how to begin eating more organic and still be able to spend within the budget. Imagine that this is a piece of advice that your friend, one who has already taken the trip, would offer you.

organic vegetables

Why Organic? 

Before we discuss the financial aspect of it, we would want to make a brief explanation as to why organic is worth it. Fruits, vegetables, pulses and grains which are organic are produced without using harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilisers. 

This implies:

You have food nearer to nature.

It is healthier in the long term.

It takes care of farmers 

who adopt eco-friendly activities.

In my case when I first tried organic tomatoes offered by a local farmer in the market, it had much more flavour than the one which was offered by the supermarket. That slight development prompted me to consume organic more frequently.

Keep It Small, Take It SmallYour greatest error is to go and convert your whole kitchen to organic all at the same time. That is overbearing and expensive. Rather, only a few items to start with.As a way to start, you can start replacing your usual apples, leafy greens or tomatoes with organic ones, followed by rice, dal or wheat flour when you have the money.This way to slowly switch will help you adapt without taking on the financial strain.

Look at the "Dirty Dozen"Certain fruits and vegetables take up more chemicals as compared to others. In case you cannot afford to purchase all organic, then just make sure to purchase those that are most susceptible to pesticides. Internationally, health professionals tend to agree on the so-called Dirty Dozen, which includes 

spinach, 

apples, 

strawberries, and peppers.

To obtain the greatest benefit, you may purchase these items as organic producers, and you may continue purchasing the other items, which are traditionally cultivated.

Buy Local and SeasonalBuyers can save money by simply buying local farmers markets or reputable sellers. Organic products in elegant packaged bottles are more expensive to buy by nature, because of transportation and branding.

Instead, spend the weekend in the sabzi mandi near you. Purchase produce and fruits that are in season.

Agricultural (Small farmers are not only cheaper but also more nutritious.)Talk to small farmers directly. 

Most of them produce food in a more or less organic manner although they do not possess the certified label.

As an example, my neighbour frequently purchases organic banana straight to the farmer in Tamil Nadu. They are much cheaper than those sold in the supermarkets of the metro cities and they are farm-dried.

Cook More at Home

A processed organic food, such as biscuits, chips, or prepared meals is usually far more costly. 

That is because:You can save your money on packaging and brand expenses.

You make a healthier choice.

You can get more out of your organic food.

An organic dal-chawal or roti-sabzi made with organic vegetables and fruits will be much more nutritious (and less expensive) than buying organic snacks with high prices.

Buy in BulkProvided that you have the storage facility, you can also buy grains, pulses and flour in large quantities. Discounts are often available on organic wholesalers or cooperative stores when you make bigger purchases. In most Indian cities, there are local organic collectives where the families can go together and place an order (to reduce the price per person by purchasing in large quantities) bringing the insects and moisture away.

Tips: Place goods in containers that do not trap moisture and air to avoid insects getting into them.

Grow Your Own Herbs and VeggiesNo matter where you stay, be it in a tiny flat, you can have some basics such as coriander, curry leaves, spinach, or even tomatoes in a pot or even in a planter in the balcony. Planting food yourself will ensure it is completely chemical-free, fresh and no additional expenses are added.I began with just a basic pot of mint (pudina) on my balcony and trust me, not only did it save my money, but also made my chai that much more enjoyable.

Smart Use of Online PlatformsA number of online retailers currently offer organic food to your doorstep. Some of them can be expensive, but there is a good amount of discounts and sales on a seasonal basis. Subscribing to newsletters or reviewing of festive offers (such as Diwali) can assist you to hoard when prices are low.You can also save a lot of money in an overall perspective by comparing prices across two or three websites before purchasing.

Control Waste and Plan MealsFinally, the final and possibly the largest source of savings, organic or not, is to minimize food waste. Preplan your meals, purchase only what you will consume within the next week or so and store food properly.One of the tricks that I have is writing down a menu and shopping list of the week. In this manner this would mean that I do not purchase impulsively and nothing goes to waste in the fridge.

Concluding: remarks It is not even necessary to go on organic food at once, and it is quite feasible. Begin with little, shop locally, prepare at home and introduce bit by bit changes. Even a few organic products in your everyday diet will make a change in your health.It is not about being perfect, but better, one step at a time, that is the idea of organic living that you can spread to your friends and relatives, posting it on social media. And do not forget to subscribe to our blog to get more basic and practical health, food and wellness desks.Your healthy and cleaner eating can start 

today-- one small tomato, organic, at a time!